Charting our Collective Future SMO Leadership Retreat

From November 24-27, leaders from small and medium organizations (SMOs) across Canada convened in Banff for a retreat on Charting our Collective Future.

Alongside the eight Provincial and Regional Councils of the Inter-Council Network, the retreat was a moment to step back, come together, and reflect on the state of international cooperation today. From centering decolonial practices to building new strategies to engage the Canadian public in global solidarity, the common thread was strengthening community amongst SMOs and tap into the opportunities of collaboration in the sector. Be it through partnerships, sharing knowledge and resources, or advocating for one another, the ideas coming from the retreat paint a positive vision for what we can continue to achieve together here in Canada and around the world. Facing cuts to international aid, our solidarity is more important than ever.

This was a unique opportunity to shape the path forward, build lasting connections, and amplify the impact of our shared work now and in the future. 

Overall Objectives

• To build and strengthen relationships amongst the national network of small and medium-sized organizations (SMOs), Provincial and Regional Councils, and the Inter-Council Network (ICN) to enhance collaboration in mobilizing and campaigning together for future SMO support and evolving global issues.
• To address opportunities and challenges faced by leaders within Canada’s international cooperation sector.
• To share inspiring stories, good practices, resources and opportunities that build personal and organizational capacity.

Photography by Anisha Jessel.